President William Ruto has publicly addressed the violent disruption that occurred during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, which was attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, blaming political interference for the chaos.
Speaking on Sunday, February 1, at the PEFA All Nations Gospel Church in Gikomba, the Head of State condemned disorder and the use of force in places of worship, stressing that churches must remain neutral, peaceful spaces regardless of political differences.
Without directly naming individuals, President Ruto cautioned against what he described as a growing tendency to turn church gatherings into political platforms, warning that such actions undermine the sanctity of worship.
“As a country, we must separate politics from the house of God,” Ruto said to a cheering congregation. “We may compete for leadership and hold differing views, but when we enter a church, that should be a place of reverence and respect.”
He further urged leaders and citizens alike to refrain from introducing hatred, violence, or political confrontations into religious spaces, emphasizing that churches should remain centres for unity, prayer, and peace.
The President’s remarks come amid heightened debate following an incident in Othaya where a church service was disrupted after a teargas canister was reportedly thrown into the congregation. Gachagua, who was expected to attend the service, later claimed he was forced to flee through nearby bushes, alleging that his life was in danger.
The incident sparked sharp exchanges between the opposition and the government, with the National Police Service (NPS) maintaining that Gachagua’s team failed to notify local security officials in advance of his attendance at the church event.
Addressing the matter, President Ruto also directed security agencies to exercise caution and restraint when dealing with activities inside places of worship.
“Our security teams must protect churches from unnecessary conflict and political battles,” he said, adding that law enforcement should act responsibly in sensitive environments.
Following the Othaya incident, opposition leaders—including Gachagua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua—held talks with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja at Vigilance House on January 30. Kanja later assured the leaders of improved cooperation and open communication between the police and political actors.
Days later, Gachagua and other opposition figures attended another church service in Murang’a County, an event marked by a visibly heavy police presence, reflecting heightened security concerns in the wake of the Othaya chaos.